Fly with Confidence: The 25 Safest Airlines of 2025

Airline safety is a key factor for millions of travelers worldwide. Every year, AirlineRatings.com evaluates hundreds of airlines to determine the safest options available. In 2025, they have ranked the top 25 safest full-service airlines based on a range of crucial factors. This list is designed to help passengers make informed decisions about their air travel choices.

Who Conducts the Ranking?

The ranking is carried out by AirlineRatings.com, the world’s only dedicated airline safety and product rating website. The organization monitors 385 airlines globally, assessing their safety standards, fleet conditions, and incident history.

How the Rankings Are Determined

AirlineRatings.com evaluates airlines based on a variety of criteria, including:

• Serious incidents over the past two years

• Fleet age and size

• Rate of incidents

• Fatalities

• Profitability

• IOSA certification (IATA Operational Safety Audit)

• ICAO country audit pass

• Pilot skill and training

Why These Criteria Matter

Each of these factors plays a role in determining an airline's overall safety. For example, a younger fleet often means improved safety features, while pilot training can mean the difference between an incident and a disaster. Financial stability is also crucial—airlines struggling with profitability may cut corners on maintenance or training.

The Reality of Airline Safety

Flying remains the safest mode of transport, with an approximate death risk of 1 in 13.7 million per flight boarding between 2018 and 2022. In contrast, over 1.19 million people died in road accidents in 2023. While safety incidents happen, a well-trained crew and strong safety protocols ensure that the vast majority of flights land safely.

#25- United Airlines

United Airlines ranks at #25 on the list. Despite being one of the largest airlines in the world, it has faced operational and safety challenges, including a few notable incidents in recent years. However, United remains a safe option, maintaining IOSA certification and investing in pilot training.

#24 - Vietnam Airlines

Vietnam Airlines makes its debut in the top 25 this year. With a young fleet and a strong safety record, the airline has made significant strides in its training programs and operational standards, securing a well-deserved place on the list.

#23 - Delta Airlines

Delta Airlines, one of the largest carriers in the U.S., is known for its extensive domestic and international network. With a focus on pilot training and fleet modernization, Delta consistently maintains a strong safety record.

#22 - Air Canada

Air Canada continues to be North America’s safest airline. Its safety enhancements, fleet investments, and well-trained pilots contribute to its strong standing in the rankings.

#21 - Japan Airlines (JAL)

JAL remains one of the safest airlines globally. The airline’s commitment to strict maintenance protocols and world-class training ensures it continues to be a preferred choice for safety-conscious travelers.

#20 - Lufthansa/Swiss

Lufthansa and its subsidiary Swiss International Airlines are known for their robust safety measures. Lufthansa’s stringent pilot training and fleet investments make it one of Europe’s safest carriers.

#19 - Finnair

Finnair’s young and fuel-efficient fleet, combined with excellent pilot training, makes it one of the safest airlines in Europe. The airline consistently ranks highly in safety audits.

#18 - Iberia

Spain’s flagship carrier, Iberia, makes the top 25 list for the first time. The airline has significantly improved its safety measures and fleet modernization over the past decade.

#17 - British Airways

British Airways maintains an excellent safety record. With its rigorous safety training and modern long-haul fleet, the airline remains a top choice for international travelers.

#16 - SAS (Scandinavian Airlines)

SAS continues to uphold Scandinavia’s strong aviation safety culture. The airline places a strong emphasis on pilot training and aircraft maintenance.

#15 - American Airlines

As the world’s largest airline by fleet size, American Airlines maintains a strong focus on safety. The airline has continued investing in next-generation aircraft and rigorous safety training.

#14 - Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines boasts an impeccable safety record, with no fatal accidents in its history. Its small but modern fleet and well-trained pilots contribute to its strong ranking.

#13 - TAP Portugal

TAP Portugal consistently scores well on safety audits. The airline has invested in newer aircraft and comprehensive pilot training programs.

#12 - Turkish Airlines (THY)

Turkish Airlines has a large and growing network. Despite its rapid expansion, it maintains high safety standards and modern aircraft.

#11 - Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines has one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient fleets in North America. The airline is known for exceptional maintenance practices and highly trained pilots.

#10 - Korean Air

Korean Air has improved significantly in safety over the past decade. Its strict pilot training programs and fleet enhancements have helped it secure a top 10 spot.

#9 - EVA Air

Taiwan’s EVA Air maintains an outstanding safety record, consistently ranking as one of the world’s safest airlines.

#8 ANA (All Nippon Airways)

ANA’s commitment to rigorous safety standards and its young fleet contribute to its consistently high rankings.

#7 - Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways operates one of the youngest fleets in the world. The airline is known for stringent maintenance practices and excellent pilot training.

#6 - Virgin Australia

Virgin Australia has consistently improved its safety protocols and invested in a more modern fleet.

Shared #3/4/5 - Cathay Pacific; Qatar Airways; Emirates

Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Cathay Pacific share the #3 spot due to their commitment to excellence in safety and operations. Each of these airlines has world-class training programs, modern fleets, and a strong record in incident management. Their emphasis on pilot skill and safety procedures makes them some of the safest choices for air travel.

#2 Qantas

Qantas has historically been recognized as the world’s safest airline. It remains at the top due to industry-leading safety training and operational excellence.

#1 Air New Zealand

Air New Zealand takes the top spot in 2025, thanks to its young fleet, outstanding safety protocols, and exceptional pilot training. Despite tough competition, it remains the world's safest full-service airline.